Ontario's Education Minister Paul Calandra is considering additional interventions in school boards across the province following the recent passage of controversial legislation that grants the government expanded powers.
New Legislation Enables Government Intervention
The provincial government has successfully passed Bill 33, which provides the education minister with enhanced authority to intervene in school board operations when deemed necessary. The legislation, approved in November 2025, represents a significant shift in the balance of power between local school boards and the provincial government.
Education Minister Paul Calandra confirmed that his office is actively monitoring several school boards across Ontario and hasn't ruled out implementing further takeovers. This development comes amid ongoing concerns about board governance and student achievement outcomes in certain regions.
Expanded Ministerial Powers
The newly passed legislation grants the education minister broad authority to appoint supervisors to school boards that the government determines are struggling with governance, financial management, or student performance issues. These appointed supervisors would assume control from elected trustees, effectively sidelining local democratic oversight.
Minister Calandra defended the legislation during question period at Queen's Park, arguing that the measures are necessary to ensure consistent educational standards across Ontario. He emphasized that the powers would be used judiciously and only in circumstances where student welfare or educational quality is at risk.
Reactions and Implications
The passage of Bill 33 has generated significant debate within educational circles and among opposition parties. Critics argue that the legislation undermines local autonomy and democratic representation, while supporters maintain it provides necessary tools to address underperforming school boards.
The legislation comes at a time when several Ontario school boards are facing complex challenges, including budget constraints, declining enrollment in some regions, and the ongoing implementation of curriculum changes. The government's increased oversight authority could potentially affect how these challenges are addressed in the coming months.
As Minister Calandra and his team evaluate potential interventions, education stakeholders across Ontario are closely watching how these new powers will be implemented and which school boards might be subject to government takeover in the near future.
